Network Manager (City of London)

Job Description: Network Manager

Job Title: Network Manager

Location: London

Department: IT Infrastructure

Reports To: Head of Infrastructure / CTO

Type: Contract – 6 month rolling. Inside IR35

About the Role

We are seeking a seasoned Network Manager to lead our Global Network Services team. This role is critical in shaping the strategy, governance, and security of our network infrastructure across the UK, EMEA and the US. You will oversee a team of 10+ engineers, manage vendor relationships, and ensure the delivery of secure, scalable, and high-performing network services.

Key Responsibilities

• Define and implement the network strategy and governance framework.
• Lead the deployment and management of network security controls in collaboration with the InfoSec team.
• Conduct periodic risk reviews to ensure alignment with security baselines.
• Oversee the design and deployment of Arista spine-leaf architecture in greenfield data centers.
• Manage Juniper router deployments and AWS-based Palo Alto NGFW VM series in hub-and-spoke topologies.
• Lead Exchange connectivity projects for financial services (e.g., LSE, SGX, ASX).
• Support M&A integrations under tight deadlines and within TSA frameworks.
• Implement network automation using platforms like NetBrain.
• Manage vendor relationships, negotiate SOWs, and ensure SLA compliance.
• Handle network services budgeting and quarterly reviews.
• Mentor and manage a distributed team, setting OKRs and conducting performance reviews.

Required Skills & Experience

• 8+ years in network engineering/management roles.
• Strong leadership and team management experience.
• You\’ll need to be hands-on in Network Engineer in your current role
• Expertise in Palo Alto Networks, Arista, Juniper, and AWS networking.
• Familiarity with network automation tools (e.g., NetBrain).
• Experience in financial services or similarly regulated environments is a plus.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Relevant certifications (e.g., CISSP, PCNSE, AWS Certified Advanced Networking) are advantageous.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with Exchange connectivity and financial trading environments.
• Background in IT governance and change management.
• Strong vendor and budget management capabilities.

TO APPLY – click the link provided or email Barry.Ansell@HarringtonStarr.com for a faster response